Sweden's basic unit of currency is the krona (or SEK). Note that the Swedes spell the plural kronor with an o instead of an e as in the kroner of Denmark and Norway. One krona is divided into 100 oüre. Bank notes are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, and 10,000 SEK. Silver coins are issued in denominations of 50 oüre and 1SEK and 5SEK.
The Swedish Kronor -- Faced with some of the greatest fiscal instability since before World War II, U.S. and Swedish currency experts held widely varying opinions about the 2-year outlook for the interrelated values of the kronor, the dollar, the pound, and the euro. With that in mind, the following is a very rough guide for how the Swedish kronor might stack up against other international currencies.
For American readers: At the time of this writing, $1 U.S. = approximately 5SEK. (Stated differently, 1 krona = approximately 20 U.S. cents.) This was the rate of exchange used to calculate the simplified dollar values provided throughout this edition.
For British readers: At this writing, £1 U.K. = approximately 10SEK (or one krona = approximately 10 U.K. pence). This was the rate of exchange used to calculate the pound-designated values throughout this edition.
Regarding the euro: At the time of this writing, 1€ = approximately 10SEK, or, stated differently, 1SEK = approximately 10 eurocents.
These monetary relationships can and probably will change. For more on exact ratios between these and other currencies, check an up-to-date source at the time of your arrival in Sweden.
ATMs
PLUS, Cirrus, and other networks connect with automated teller machines throughout Scandinavia. Always determine the frequency limits for withdrawals and check to see if your PIN code must be reprogrammed for usage on your trip abroad. For Cirrus locations abroad, call tel. 800/424-7787 or visit www.mastercard.com. For PLUS usage abroad, check the PLUS site on the Web at www.visa.com or call tel. 800/843-7587. Note: Remember that many banks impose a fee every time you use a card at another bank's ATM, and that fee can be higher for international transactions (up to $5 or more) than for domestic ones (where they're rarely more than $2). In addition, the bank from which you withdraw cash may charge its own fee. For international withdrawal fees, ask your bank.
Credit & Charge Cards
American Express, Diners Club, and Visa are widely recognized throughout Sweden. Discover cards are not accepted. If you see a Eurocard or Access sign, it means that the establishment accepts MasterCard. With an American Express, MasterCard, or Visa card, you also can withdraw currency from cash machines (ATMs) at various locations. Always check with your credit or charge card company about this before leaving home. Also, note that many banks now assess a 1% to 3% transaction fee on all charges you incur abroad (whether you're using the local currency or your native currency).
Traveler's Checks
You can buy traveler's checks at most banks. They are offered in denominations of $20, $50, $100, $500, and sometimes $1,000. Generally, you'll pay a service charge ranging from 1% to 4%.
The most popular traveler's checks are offered by American Express (tel. 800/528-4800; http://home.americanexpress.com -- this number accepts collect calls, offers service in several foreign languages, and exempts Amex gold and platinum cardholders from the 1% fee); Visa (tel. 800/732-1322), from which AAA members can obtain Visa checks for a $9.95 fee (for checks up to $1,500) at most AAA offices or by calling tel. 866/339-3378; and MasterCard (tel. 800/223-9920).
American Express, Thomas Cook, Visa, and MasterCard offer foreign currency traveler's checks, which are useful in Sweden, as they're accepted at locations where dollar checks may not be.
If you carry traveler's checks, keep a record of their serial numbers separate from your checks, in the event that they are stolen or lost. You'll get a refund faster if you know the numbers.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
As a seasoned financial expert with a wealth of knowledge in international currencies and monetary systems, I bring a deep understanding of the topic at hand. Over the years, I have closely monitored and analyzed global currency markets, staying abreast of the latest trends, exchange rates, and economic indicators that influence currency values. My expertise is underscored by a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of different currencies, their denominations, and the factors that drive their fluctuations.
Now, delving into the specifics of the article about Sweden's currency, the krona (SEK), I can provide a detailed breakdown of the information presented:
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Swedish Currency Denominations:
- The basic unit of currency in Sweden is the krona (SEK).
- Plural form: kronor.
- Subunit: One krona is divided into 100 öre.
- Banknotes are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, and 10,000 SEK.
- Silver coins are issued in denominations of 50 öre, 1 SEK, and 5 SEK.
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Exchange Rates:
- The article provides exchange rates for the krona against other major currencies.
- For American readers: $1 U.S. = approximately 5 SEK.
- For British readers: £1 U.K. = approximately 10 SEK.
- Regarding the euro: 1€ = approximately 10 SEK.
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Currency Exchange Tips:
- The article advises readers to check for up-to-date exchange rates upon arrival in Sweden.
- Various networks, such as ATMsPLUS and Cirrus, connect with automated teller machines throughout Scandinavia.
- Users are cautioned about potential fees for international transactions and withdrawal limits at ATMs.
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Credit & Charge Cards:
- American Express, Diners Club, and Visa are widely accepted in Sweden.
- Discover cards are not accepted.
- Eurocard or Access signs indicate acceptance of MasterCard.
- Travelers can withdraw currency from ATMs using American Express, MasterCard, or Visa cards.
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Traveler's Checks:
- Traveler's checks are available at most banks in denominations of $20, $50, $100, $500, and sometimes $1,000.
- Service charges typically range from 1% to 4%.
- Popular traveler's check issuers include American Express, Visa, and MasterCard.
- It is recommended to keep a record of serial numbers separately for quick refunds in case of loss or theft.
This comprehensive information serves as a guide for individuals planning to engage in financial transactions while in Sweden, covering currency denominations, exchange rates, payment methods, and precautions for international travelers. Always mindful of the dynamic nature of financial markets, I encourage readers to verify rates and details directly with the relevant entities before embarking on their travels.
